In Loving Memory of Matt Garrett beloved Strategist, Advocate, and Mentor. Dr. J. Matthew Garrett, age 38, passed away unexpectedly due to a heart attack while traveling abroad. His sudden departure has left a profound sense of loss among his family, friends, colleagues, and the many communities he served with unwavering passion and integrity.
Matt Garrett Deloitte
Matt Garrett was a widely respected strategist at Deloitte, where he dedicated his career to advancing human-centered approaches within public health and government sectors. His work reflected not only intellectual excellence but also a deep commitment to equity, empathy, and sustainable change. In every role he undertook, Matt brought innovation and heart, championing systems that worked for people—not just policies.
A proud alumnus of the University of Georgia, where he studied International Business, Matt’s leadership qualities emerged early. He was crowned Homecoming King during his time at Georgia—a recognition so significant that his hometown honored him by declaring an annual “Matt Garrett Day” each December. That same charm, authenticity, and magnetic spirit would continue to define his journey and leave lasting impressions on all who knew him.
Matt Garrett Atlanta
Matt Garrett was also a powerful voice in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in Atlanta, where he served for many years as a leader within the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). As a member of HRC’s Board of Directors, he was tireless in his advocacy, working to ensure equality, dignity, and visibility for all. His ability to connect across lines of difference made him a unifier and a force for positive transformation.
Beyond his impressive professional and advocacy work, Matt was known as a compassionate mentor, a generous colleague, and a deeply loyal friend. He had a unique ability to lead with both head and heart—bringing intellect and charisma into every space he entered.
A former colleague reflected on their time with Matt at Emory University, recalling not just his mentorship but the joyful, human moments that made working with him unforgettable:
“I have so many happy memories of working with Matt Garrett at Emory. One that stands out was the day we learned his hometown celebrated ‘Matt Garrett Day’ in December in honor of him being crowned Homecoming King at Georgia. We also discovered he had a ‘work hairstyle’ and a ‘party hairstyle’—we couldn’t stop laughing.
We decided to celebrate Matt Garrett Day as a staff, and it was filled with so much joy and laughter.
Matt was my first professional supervisor. He was intentional, supportive, fun, and incredibly smart. He believed in me and challenged me to grow when I was just starting out, far from home. My heart is broken for his family and for all the communities Matt cared so deeply about.”
That reflection captures who Matt was: a leader who empowered others, a friend who brought joy, and a human being who never lost sight of what truly mattered. He was the kind of person whose presence uplifted a room and whose guidance shaped lives.
Matt Garrett Funeral Details
Dr. Garrett’s legacy is one of transformational leadership, mentorship, compassion, and authenticity. His absence will be deeply felt across every space he touched, and the void left behind is immense. Yet, the impact of his work and the kindness he extended will live on in the lives of those he inspired.
Details regarding a memorial service will be shared by the family in the coming days. In the meantime, we honor his life, his vision, and the light he brought to so many. Rest in power, Matt. You will never be forgotten.